Teaching Beyond Language: Building Cultural Awareness

Not all children in our classrooms speak English as their home language. Some children were born in other countries and moved with their parents to the United States. Other children were born here in the US to international parents who speak a language other than English at home. As their church teachers, we need to embrace their cultural differences as a reflection of God's creativity and welcome them into our church family as our brothers and sisters. All the nations of the world are precious to our Creator, and he desires that all people to come to know him through Jesus Christ. Imagine heaven. Scripture tells us that one day people from "every nation, tribe, people and language, [will be] standing before the throne and in front of the Lamb" praising God! (Revelation 7:9) 

Sheri Babb in Kids Ministry 101 by LifeWay lists several reminders to help us build cultural awareness. As you read them, ask God to help you become more senstive toward the different cultures present in your room.

Help kids develop cultural awareness. The preschool and elementary years are important in the development of social skills—skills to work, play, and enjoy God’s world together. When teachers are culturally sensitive and incorporate cultural materials naturally into the child’s play, they lay positive foundations for all God’s people. Teachers are being culturally sensitive and can help kids develop cultural sensitivity when they do the following:

 

*   Clarify misconceptions like, “If I touch him will I be pink, too?” As a teacher you may reply: “Jason’s skin is his color and your skin is your color. Skin stays the color God made it.”

 

*   Give simple answers: “Satoshi talks in Japanese because his parents do. You talk like your mommy and daddy. As you play with Satoshi, you may learn some Japanese words and Satoshi may learn some English words.”

 

*   Model respect for cultures both verbally and nonverbally. Be careful not to stereotype. Instead of saying, “Sit Indian-style,” say, “Sit like this, with your legs crossed in front of you.”

 

*   Give accurate information about various cultures.

*   Reflect cultures as alive and transforming.

*   Understand that families within a culture are different.

*   Use pictures, materials, and other supplies depicting the culture in contemporary life in the United States.

*   Incorporate songs, games, and recipes from other cultures into activities.